proposal for Complementary Masterclass
Enhancing
Sonic Creativity
and Workflow
with coco francavilla
Complementary to
hannes Bieger's Masterclass
WIDER SOUNDS IBIZA
October 21-24, 2024
Overview
Join us for an enriching extension to Hannes Bieger's masterclass with Coco Francavilla, a composer & sound artist, founder of WIDER SOUNDS.
This complementary module, designed to elevate your creative process, will provide hands-on experience in sound synthesis, the integration of acoustic instruments with digital audio tools, along with effective studio workflow techniques. Coco's unique approach will enhance the foundational skills taught by Hannes Bieger, adding depth and creativity to your music production journey.
about Coco Francavilla
Coco Francavilla is a composer, sound artist, and acoustic architect known for her innovative integration of music and sonic holistic experiences. As the founder of WIDER SOUNDS Studio in Ibiza, Coco has created a haven for creativity, blending state-of-the-art technology with the serene beauty of the Mediterranean landscape. Her expertise spans various disciplines, including sound synthesis, acoustic physics, and effective studio workflows, making her a versatile and inspiring mentor for aspiring music producers.
Coco has worked and toured with cult artist Tricky from Massive Attack, collaborated with influential techno artists and was a sound synthesis expert and sound-engineer with Afterlife on their world tour. Her work includes sonic endeavors in the electronic and ambient scene and contributions to numerous film scores, including the Blade Runner 2049 trailer music compositions.
Proposed Modules
a selection of several curated modules. Each module option could last between 2 and 8 hours depending on depth and practical experimentation
Module 1
Introduction to Sound Synthesis
Sound & Vibrations
understanding the basics of creating sound through synthesis.the Elements of Sound
Exploring pitch, timbre, and volume and their role in sound synthesis.Electrical & Electronic Waveforms
Understanding different waveforms and their applications in music, both for analog gear and vstMain Components of Synthesizers
Understanding amplifiers, oscillatorS, filterS, and envelopes.Types of Synthesizers
Brief history of sound synthesis, exploring different types of synthesizers (analog, digital, monophonic, polyphonic, modular).Types of Synthesis
Exploring Subtractive, Additive, FM, S&S, Wavetable, Phase Distortion, and Physical Modeling.Harmonics, the Colors of Sounds and the Architecture of Frequency
Delving into the harmonic spectrum of sounds, exploring how different frequencies combine to create complex tonal colors, and understanding the structural foundation of sound design.Practical Session
Hands-on exploration of waveforms and the building blocks of sound using iconic vintage synthesizers like the Minimoog, Juno-60, Prophet-5, and modular synths available in the studio.
Module 2
Optimizing Creative Studio Techniques & inspiring workflow
Basic Acoustic Recording Techniques
Introduction to microphone types and their uses, including recording techniques and audio signal chain for vocals, piano, and acoustic instrumentsExternal Effects
Exploring the use of effects pedals and processors to enhance synthesizer sounds and sonic manipulationFIELD RECORDINGS
USING OUR SURROUNDING AND NATURAL ENVIROMENT TO ENHANCE SONIC PALETTE , FOR ORGANIC INTEGRATION IN THE COMPOSITION FLOWRouting Techniques
Setting up and managing signal flow for optimal audio quality, including INTRO TO audio interfaceS OPTIONS, mixing consoles, and preamp guidelinesCable Management
Techniques for cable management optimization and routingEffective Studio Work management
Organizing sessions, sound libraries , managing stems and online catalog for efficient music productionPractical Session
Experimenting with acoustic instruments and their integration into digital compositions, implementing external effects, and optimizing studio workflow for creative freedom.
Module 3
essential Acoustic Physics and
Room Acoustics
Basics of Acoustic Physic
Understanding sound waves, frequency response, SPL.Room Acoustics
How to improve the sound in a room, understanding speaker placement, subwoofer crossovers, monitoring & headphone routing.Sound Sources
Understanding the frequency range of musical instruments and how to apply it to mixing techniques.Sound Propagation
Reflection, diffusion, absorption, and transmission.Room Acoustical Quality Evaluation
From clarity to reverberance, introduction to auralization.Practical Session
Implementing acoustic improvements and optimizing room acoustics for better sound quality.
Module 4
from studio to stage:
Gear Selection and Live Setup
Ableton as a Creative Tool for Live Performances:
Understanding the basics of clips, scenes, and arrangement view to enhance live performances.Gear Selection Guidelines for Techno
Focus on hardware gear, drum machines, and organizing sound libraries.
Gear Selection Guidelines for Ambient Music
Use of pedals, creative routing, and modular synth approaches.Gear Selection Guidelines for Hybrid Setups
Combining various elements from digital "in the box" to analog and external instruments for a versatile sound palette.MIDI Controllers as Creative Tools
Exploring tools for hybrid routing to enhance creative live performances (introduction to Max for live patches).Live Setup, Transitioning from studio to stage
using controllers and other live performance tools, cabling, gear packing, logistics tips.SUSTAINABLE touring PRACTICES
how to minimize our carbon footprint when on the roadPractical Session
Setting up and testing live performance configurations.
Objectives
To provide participants with advanced sound synthesis skills and techniques.
To explore the creative integration of acoustic and electronic elements.
To enhance the practical application of modular synthesis and external effects in music production.
To guide participants in selecting essential gear based on their desired sound and genre.
to inspire participants to develop their unique sonic identity and improve their studio workflow.
Benefits
Hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment and software.
Personalized feedback and guidance from Coco Francavilla.
Opportunity to collaborate and network with fellow music producers.
access to the serene and inspiring environment of WIDER SOUNDS Studio.
